Update Notes: 20-Feb-2001

Despite what I said about wireless networks, I HAVE actually been keeping my eye on it just in case I'm asked to comment on it or someone asks me to implement it somewhere. However, I still lack hands-on experiece with any wireless solutions so far (not counting my TV/VCR remote controller):

For the record, there are 3 standards worth noting:

• Home RF: This is the prevailing wireless solution used in home networking today. It has a rated speed of 1.6Mbps. For further information, see: http://www.homerf.org.
• 802.11: This is now an outdated wireless standard previously used in business environments. It runs at 1Mbps.
• 802.11b (or "WiFi"): This is the enhanced version of 802.11 which now runs at 11Mbps and likewise is aimed at business users. For further information, see: http://www.wirelessethernet.org.

(Note: For a basic introduction to wireless technologies, visit: http://www.homenethelp.com/web/explain/about-wireless.asp.)

While Home RF appears to be rather slow, it's presumed to be adequate for home demands, especially in light of its more modest cost. 802.11b, meanwhile, runs at a speed that rivals Home PNA 2.0 (Phoneline) and 10Base-T Ethernet. And while considerably more expensive, its price is gradually dropping to a point where it should rival HomeRf in affordability.

Finally, some companies I'm aware of that make wireless products:

Intel (http://www.intel.com)
Linksys (http://www.linksys.com)
Proxim (http://www.proxim.com)

Update Notes: 18-Feb-2001

A continuation of this article, which delves into areas unrelated to internet sharing (specifically print servers), can be found here.

Update Notes: 15-Feb-2001

PC Magazine again has a write-up on home networking in their March 6, 2001 issue. This one has nothing to do with Win ME, and instead covers the various home networking possibilities, being:

• Pure Home RF/802.11b (i.e. wireless)
• Pure Home PNA (i.e. Phoneline)
• Mixed Ethernet/Home PNA

A pretty good read. I wonder what they'll do for APRIL 6?

Update Notes: 28-Jan-2001

The February 6, 2001 issue of PC Magazine has a piece on mixed technology home networking (i.e integrating Phoneline and Ethernet networks) based purely on Windows ME. It covers pretty much the same ground that I did, but without the extra hardware. Despite my capital investment and the fact that I myself am running Win ME, I'm still quite happy and satisfied with the performance of my setup. Besides, I'm not sure if I trust Win ME THAT much!